The 5 least reliable cars in 2026

Reliability (aka dependability) is one of the lease sexy aspects of car ownership, yet many consider it to be one of the most important. Essentially, reliability means a vehicle's ability to consistently operate without unexpected mechanical failures and breakdowns, with the assumption that the owner is performing routine maintenance.

The least reliable car models for 2026 are largely comprised of newer electrified vehicles and a handful of complex SUVs, with Consumer Reports’ survey data highlighting the same nameplates for problems ranging from transmission failures to EV battery and infotainment issues.

Consumer Reports’ “least reliable” lists for 2026 are pulled from owner surveys covering around 350,000–380,000 vehicles, andn then they convert these problem rates into a 0–100 reliability score where higher ones are better (more reliable). Models near the bottom typically score in the teens or low 20s, indicating far more issues than average across powertrain, electronics, and the vehicle's body.

For 2026, the worst scores aggregate around complex plug‑in hybrids and first‑ or second‑generation EVs, plus a few mainstream three‑row SUVs whose drivetrains and electronics are still shaking out. While individual experiences vary, the models below all sit at or near the bottom of CR’s predicted reliability rankings for the current model year.

#5: Genesis GV60

Genesis’ GV60, a compact luxury EV, ranks near the bottom with a predicted reliability score around 21. Although it's a stunning vehicle, regularly earning high marks from critics, its reliability is spotty, at best. Survey responses cite significant EV battery and cooling problems, charging issues tied to the integrated charging control unit, drive‑system faults, climate‑control failures, brake and body‑hardware issues, and repeated infotainment replacements along with various noise and trim complaints.

Luxury EV buyers are often early adopters, but the GV60’s complexity—in both powertrain and in-car technology—raises the risk of multiple systems needing attention while under warranty. For shoppers focused on trouble‑free operation rather than cutting‑edge features, vehicles with less complex gas-hybrid powertrains or ICE luxury crossovers are safer bets.

#4: Mazda CX‑90 Plug‑In Hybrid

Mazda's attempt to go premium hasn't been fully baked. The three-row plug‑in CX‑90 PHEV is in these ranks with a predicted reliability score near 20. Owner reports mention EV battery malfunctions and cooling issues, electric‑motor faults, transmission and drive‑system problems, fuel‑system quirks, steering and suspension concerns, brake troubles, electrical accessories, body hardware, infotainment glitches, and noise/leak and paint/trim issues.

Stacking a new inline‑six platform with a PHEV system decreases reliability for a new model, particularly for units made in early production periods. The CX-90 PHEV's powertrain can suffer from shudders and interruptions, and switching between gas and electric lacks smoothness and quietness. While the CX‑90 PHEV offers impressive efficiency and power on paper, buyers should be prepared for above‑average downtime compared with established hybrid systems from Toyota or Lexus.

#3: Chevrolet Blazer EV

Chevrolet’s Blazer EV might look slick and ready to wow, but this electric SUV posts a predicted reliability score around 19, landing it in the bottom three. Owners commonly report EV‑battery malfunctions and cooling issues, electric heating and AC compressor failures, 12‑volt battery problems, and infotainment screens that freeze or go blank, and then there are the various noise and leak complaints. It's not surprising that these mounting problems have resulted in poor scores for the rather new Blazer EV.

The Blazer EV’s troubles have already generated headlines and even temporary sales pauses, showing how software and thermal‑management issues can undermine an otherwise compelling EV package. Shoppers seeking a mid‑size electric SUV may want to wait for later model‑year updates or look to competitors with more mature software and mid-cycle fixes.

#2: Rivian R1T

Rivian’s R1T electric pickup is a head-turner, and loyalists marvel at its capabilities on and off-road. Yet the R1T remains one of the least reliable vehicles surveyed, with a predicted reliability score of about 18. For a vehicle this cutting edge, there are bound to be issues. Reported problems run the gamut, including EV‑battery replacements, electric‑motor failures, climate control issues, steering and suspension faults, power‑accessory glitches, body‑hardware issues (such as door‑handle motor failures and tailgate latches that won’t close properly), noise/leak complaints, and paint/trim problems including loose fender‑liner trim.

This poor score reflects the challenges of scaling a startup truck maker building a complex and pricey EV from scratch, with numerous components and software systems evolving in parallel. While owners often praise the R1T’s prowess and innovation, the CR data shows a significantly higher likelihood of quality and durability issues than with mainstream trucks that have been around for decades from longstanding and proven manufacturers.

#1: GMC Acadia

At the very bottom sits a model that's been around for a while, and it's shockingly not an EV. The GMC Acadia, received a predicted reliability score as low as the mid‑teens and in at least one analysis dropping to single digits (around 4/100) in owner‑reported problem rates. The Acadia’s trouble spots center on transmission failures and leaks—sometimes requiring full replacement—along with brake problems, electrical‑accessory faults, and infotainment issues.

These systemic drivetrain and electronics problems are severe enough that CR withdrew its recommendation for the Acadia, citing it as one of the worst performers in the 2026 model year. For shoppers wanting a three‑row GM product, it may be wiser to consider alternatives or wait for mid‑cycle fixes rather than buying an early 2026 Acadia.

Final Thoughts

If reliability matters more than the latest tech, stick with proven platforms, traditional powertrains, or hybrids that have already built a strong track record. If you just have to have one of these models for its design, performance, or layout, an extended warranty or a lease can help reduce the risk of expensive long-term problems. It also helps to compare them with models that rank well for both predicted reliability and owner satisfaction so you can better judge the trade-offs.